Adam Shell| Special to USA TODAY
If you want all the pampering of a high-end spa without having to travel or wear robes stamped with a hotel logo, consider transforming your own shower into a luxury retreat.
This master bath sanctuary, which gained prominence during the pandemic lockdown, is riding a wave of popularity. Nearly all designers (87%) expect to see an increase in spa-like bathroom features in the coming years, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
For insights into the latest shower designs and remodeling ideas, USA Today spoke with New Jersey-based interior designer Ellie Mroz of Ellie Mroz Design, and her husband, Michael Mroz, president and CEO of Michael Robert Construction.
“There’s a big trend towards people creating spa-like rooms that’s more of an experience,” Ellie says. “It’s becoming a part of people’s self-care ritual. They’re making their homes their haven.”
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How do I make my shower feel like a spa?
Elevating your shower means using water as a source of calm and self-pampering. A big part of the experience is water flow from the shower fixtures, which also serve as a design focal point.
“The perfect shower has several shower heads, body sprays, and a steam unit,” Michael says.
There’s no reason to settle for a basic showerhead because there's no shortage of fixtures.
There are “showerheads that feel like rain, ones that create more of a waterfall feeling," Ellie says. "Some have different temperature settings to enhance the experience, or chromatic features such as lights that change colors to create a certain mood.”
Some showerheads enhance other senses, such as smell and hearing. Features can include aromatherapy via sprays of popular scents and fragrances. You can also add audio.
Fly me to the moon ... in my shower
For one client, the Mrozs delivered a rain moon shower head that was four feet in diameter and 12 inches deep. It mimicked the soothing effect of rainfall, while its moon shape added a striking visual element to the shower. The showerhead also came with dimmable lighting and three shower modes.
“A sheet of water falls from the perimeter, and it spins in a circle,” Michael says. “It’s one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever seen.”
Don't skimp on shower materials and finishes
If you want to mimic the high-end baths and showers at five-star hotels and spas, don't skimp on materials or finishes. It’s best to lean toward high-quality tiles and natural stone, such as marble, granite, travertine, and quartzite. And if you want a sophisticated look, Ellie recommends large-format porcelain tiles with fewer grout lines.
Set the mood with indirect lighting, adds Michael. Instead of high hats, use wall washers, which bounce light off the walls and space. Add sconces to the room and lighting under shower benches, in shelving and cove sections of the ceiling. “It will help put you in the right mental state,” Michael says.
And a heated floor elevates the experience, adds Ellie.
To boost relaxation when you’re winding down, avoid jarring bright colors. “Use a soothing color palette,” Ellie says.
Not a bathroom ... a 'wet room'
Another way to create the feel of a personal spa is a ‘wet room,” an open-plan area that's fully waterproofed without the need for a cubicle or door to separate the shower area. It's a way to go big in your master bathroom, with dual showerheads, a soaking bath, and plenty of space to pamper yourself.
Steam and stone benches add to the spa vibe
Other touches can create a spa effect such as:
Steam Showers: If your goal is relaxation, detoxification, and rejuvenation, add a steam shower. This eco-friendly feature doesn't just save water, it can relax your muscles, lower stress, and give your skin a deep cleanse.
Built-in bench: This feature adds comfort and beauty, whether you’re detoxing in steam, listening to music, shaving, or applying body treatments. “Use stone slabs that really show off the beauty of the stone and the veining,” Ellie says.
Glass doors: “The more glass the better,” Michael says. “You don’t want to cover up all your beautiful finishes.”
Spend the most on things you touch the most
Cutting corners when turning an old shower into a spa-like getaway is a no-no.
“Everything needs to be demoed and taken down to the studs,” Michael says. “It’s really important to level and square all the walls and ceilings. You want to make sure everything is straight and plum.”
Focus your spending. Most dollars should go to the things you touch every day: flooring materials, faucets, and shower heads, Ellie says.
“The hardware should feel and look like jewelry,” Michael says.
Ellie offers a coloration tip for hardware: Go with polished nickel. It has a universal look and color, unlike brass, and allows you to mix and match hardware brands.
Make sure your design is well-thought-out before starting your project and buying showerheads. “The mistakes you make are just so costly,” Ellie says.
One final piece of advice: Opt for timeless styles and finishes rather than today’s hot trend.
“These finishes are permanent until your next renovation,” Ellie says. “It’s not like a throw pillow or accent rug.”
